Construction Planning

Sequencing the construction process by integrating the BIM Model elements to project schedule has several benefits. However, to be able to carry out a successful construction sequencing exercise, to identify and resolve all the issues to develop an optimized project schedule requires patience.

Assuming that the models are developed to the detail required for Quantity Take-off standards (previously discussed) some of key issues to standardize to help the integration process painless are;

Construction Simulation Software

To be able to simulate the element wise construction process, the software used should have certain basic features to accommodate this. Apart from being interoperable with the modeling tool to create an integrated BIM Model, the software should be capable to seamlessly link the Model elements with the traditional project schedule developed either in Microsoft Project or similar tools.

Deciding on the right software and standardizing the model conversion procedures at the beginning of the process is important.

Project Schedule Dataset

A standard procedure to develop the initial project plan based on the on-site activities should be prepared in such a way that the it is in-line with the BIM Modeling element level breakdown. This will enable the simulation software to automatically identify the elements to tag the time parameter coming for the project schedule data set. However, in situations where this information is not available during the modeling stage, the BIM Models should be re-organized to meet the project schedule data set.

Some of the other important standards required for this process are similar to the coordination process such as;

BIM Modeling Standards.

File sharing standards.

Meeting Schedules.

Issue Prioritization / Clash Detection Matrix.

Issue Documentation & Follow up procedures.